What’s ‘hardcore’ in the world of accessories? Something fierce and dark that requires extreme craftsmanship, which comes from an exotic nature and screams luxurious at first glance… there we have the python.

If you think leather or patent is too passé, for this fall, many major houses have churned out a wide range of boots, sandals, cluthches and of course handbags, in none other than python skin. One good example, the Chloé Parathy.

Chic aside, the bag is rich in texture with gold accents, it has been seen hanging on the arms of Hollywood style icons like Mary-kate Olsen and Katie Holmes.

Renown avantgardist Maison Martin Margiela has also created a faux python blazer and for his fall show, he had models stomping down the runway in python knee high boots.

Maybe it is because of the nature of the animal itself— dangerous, poisonous and haunting. It elevates any garment or accessories into a form of power, which is highly covetable.

While ostrich and crocodile materials remains a favourite among designers, many have continued to explore other exotic skins, think Oscar de la Renta’s latest Goya bag, which is made of stingray skin. But after all, this season’s most show stopping has to be the python, hands down.